Rob Ford could be in more political hot water for soliciting donations to his football foundation from lobbyists. Coun. Michael Thompson says it's time the mayor handed over control of the charity, which raises cash for sports equipment, to someone outside city hall. A statement from the mayor's chief of staff Mark Towhey said the foundation has attempted to remove all lobbyists from its mailing list after integrity commissioner ruled in 2010 the practice is an "improper use of influence."
Also on the topic, coun. Gord Perks says he'll personally file a complaint if a member of the public does not. Perks says "no elected official should solicit money from someone who does business with the government. Under any circumstances, ever." Could this be the start of more trouble?
Toronto police have released the name of a suspect they're seeking in connection with a stabbing on the subway Wednesday. Cassim Celani Cummings is wanted for attempted murder, aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, and failing to comply with probation, after allegedly stabbing a commuter in the neck near Davisville station. Cummings was reportedly harassing riders before the attack.
The ROM could get a green border, complete with trees and urban furniture, if revitalization plans get the go-ahead. The landscaped area will follow Bloor St. east from Philosopher's Walk, round the corner, and down Queen's Park. The museum still needs to find sponsors for the project. Is this a good idea? Could the area use more green space?
The University line will be closed this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) for major signaling upgrades. The subway will terminate at Union and St. George until Monday at 6am. Shuttle buses will operate on the route. The line will be closed for on at least one weekend day for the rest of March.
Also in closures, the intersection of Spadina and Lake Shore Blvd. will be partially closed for construction work today through Sunday. The ramp to the eastbound lanes of the Gardiner will also be closed.
IN BRIEF:
- Scarborough fire leaves 5 homeless, kills 3 dogs [CBC]
- Toronto's mayor doesn't speak for the city on transit, says Metrolinx [Toronto Star]
- Phaneuf, Kadri lift Leafs past Isles, 5-4 in OT [CBC]
Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.
Image: "Endangered Species 64" by Dominic Bugatto/blogTO Flickr pool.